The logic of media coverage: the case of Brienz

The residents of Brienz have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the threat of a landslide. The area is currently restricted and is being monitored using drones and cameras. It remains uncertain when or if they will be able to return to their homes. This story has received considerable media coverage, especially given the village's small size, with only 90 residents. Colin Porlezza, an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society at Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), discussed the reasons for this media interest with SEIDISERA (RSI).

Events such as the one that recently involved the village of Brienz (canton of Graubünden) attract a lot of media attention, as Professor Colin Porlezza explained. "Elements like drama, uncertainty, and human relevance significantly contribute to this interest. This perspective helps us understand the media coverage we observe, which may initially seem excessive".

According to the USI professor, the story includes multiple elements that create an engaging narrative for the public: "Brienz is a village that faces an existential threat due to a natural phenomenon. The story addresses the climate crisis theme and highlights the community's fragility in the face of extreme natural events, capturing the public's imagination and concern. It explores an imminent danger and a potential tragedy that could occur in Switzerland rather than abroad".

Media coverage of events can be understood from two perspectives, as noted by Professor Colin Porlezza. First, stories that evoke fear, empathy, and solidarity tend to resonate more with audiences, making them more likely to be reported in the media. Second, extensive coverage often reflects public expectations, as people feel a "need to connect with and prepare for certain events". It is precisely the programmability of the events in Brienz, now evacuated for the second time, that differentiates it from the tragic events caused by the bad weather this summer. "Newsrooms can schedule media coverage, making public participation possible and providing immediate and constant access to developments".

In a sensitive situation like the one occurring in Graubünden, it is essential to balance the right to information with respect for those involved. "I believe that the line is crossed when the pursuit of interest compromises respect for the dignity and privacy of people in distress, particularly when this exacerbates the suffering of the victims. It is essential for journalists in such situations to adhere to the ethical principles of their profession," Porlezza concluded.

The full interview with Professor Colin Porlezza on SEIDISERA (RSI) is available at the following link (min. 8:30) Italian only.